Plans Change and Sometimes, So Does Coverage.
- Smile Back Dental
- Nov 7
- 2 min read
Ever been here? You’re dreaming about that signature dish at your favourite restaurant all week and made a rezo months ago. You walk in, sit down, open the menu and…your favourite dish is gone. The chef decided to switch things up, and now you’re left looking for the next best option. It’s still a great menu, but what you expected isn’t what you’re getting.
Dental and extended medical coverage can feel a lot like that. You think you know what’s included like cleanings, X-rays, crowns and maybe just as you experienced in previous years but then the plan changes. What was covered last year might look different today. Sometimes it’s a tweak in the percentage paid, sometimes a procedure moves to a different category, and occasionally, it’s no longer included at all.
Just like checking the menu before you order, reviewing your extended medical and dental benefits before booking that appointment can save you from an unpleasant surprise.
WHY PLANS CHANGE
Employer Plan Updates
Every year, employers review their benefit plans to keep costs in check. Sometimes that means adjusting what’s covered or changing the percentage the plan pays for certain treatments.
Insurance Company Decisions
Insurance providers also make changes based on their costs and overall business objectives.
Government Programs
New programs like the Canadian Dental Care Plan can influence the market. While these programs don’t replace private insurance, they sometimes lead employers to rethink their coverage options.
At Smile Back Dental, we interact with many local insurers including Manulife, Canada Life, and Pacific Blue Cross to name a few. In some cases, these insurers allow us to bill directly for patient convenience and sometimes they require reimbursement protocol. In a few cases, we, as a clinic will set internal procedures.
Basically, coverage costs and reimbursements aren’t set in stone. Just like a restaurant menu that changes from time to time, your dental plan can too. Checking your benefits before booking an appointment with us can save you a few headaches, or rather toothaches, later and maybe even a better plan for your smile!
Dental coverage really does evolve — this post is a solid reminder that what was covered last year won’t necessarily be covered now. Before scheduling any treatment, it’s wise to review your plan and ensure you understand your coverage. If you’re looking for reliable care, especially for residents or travellers in Canada, the keyword' Dental booking in Toronto' is useful for finding clinics that accept current plans, such as CDCP.